Rules when visiting a Thai temple (Wat)
In another posting a few things have been written about a Thai temple and what you can find in buildings and facilities. But what about the (unwritten) rules when visiting a Wat?
It is generally known that proper clothing is desirable and when entering a shrine, one's shoes must be taken off. Thailand is conservative and traditional. Depending on how important a What is, different rules apply. Full body coverings such as long pants, blouses or shirts are required at the royal temples. The color black is only desirable for funerals. Often there is supervision at these temples to ensure compliance.
Although it goes without saying, it is appreciated if the phone is turned off and the sunglasses are taken off and one is not wearing a hat. Cigarettes and chewing gum are not appreciated. Do not point a finger at objects and statues, especially if they are sacred objects. When entering a shrine, the right foot must first cross the threshold. Then make three bows towards the altar with folded hands and never pass in front of anyone who is engaged in this ceremony.
Feet must go back ma'am!
Do not put “Dharma” (including Buddha texts) on the floor. The feet should never point to an image of Buddha, nor to a monk or sacred object. These rules apply most strictly in the Bot, where sacred objects of Buddha are kept. No photos may be taken here without permission. Certainly not during a ceremony. Most temples are open to the public, but a donation is appreciated in appreciation of the Wat visited. One can choose from several options, where one is grateful for good health or asks for prosperity. It is appreciated when the rules are respected, but due to ignorance no Farang has been punished with hand chopping or worse as far as is known.
Thai are forgiving to some extent.
– Relocated in memory of Lodewijk Lagemaat † February 24, 2021 –
Very easy. The most important rule is that you take off your shoes and leave them outside while you are in the temple. Respect in the temple and don't talk in a loud tone.
Lots of fun.
Stephan
It is customary that the shoes are placed outside or in a place reserved for this purpose.
I always carry a backpack with long pants and a long-sleeved shirt (a T-shirt is not always appreciated). Furthermore, as a man it is not allowed to touch a female monk (recognizable by the white clothing) opposite The statement also applies to women not to touch a monk and to treat him or her with respect. Furthermore, I wish everyone a lot of fun
During my travels in Thailand, I always have a scarf in my bag (I buy it on the spot, another nice souvenir) when I know that I am going to visit a temple or that there is a chance (Or wear long sleeves anyway). Ideal for covering your shoulders and décolleté, little effort to adapt to the rules.
I always get extremely annoyed by foreigners who visit a temple in shorts and tank tops. Top point was once a girl in Ayuthaya, we went on a tour and visited a number of temples and she wore hot pants that were so short that you could clearly see her buttocks and a low-cut tank top with her bra clearly visible.
Go to Salou or something.
On one of our first days in Thailand at the end of 1 we visited a temple. While I know what the rules are, I hadn't taken them into account. Fortunately, my friend still had a sarong in his backpack and I quickly wrapped it around my bare legs under my dress, which suddenly felt quite short… Not a face, but a relieved feeling.
Small effort right?